Life lessons learned on the field

August 30, 2013

Tonight's high school football games mark the return of the pageantry and traditions that make weekends in our region special from late summer through early fall.

Athletic contests help to bring residents of our communities together. The strengths and weaknesses of area teams are carefully evaluated, not just by coaches, but by neighbors, friends, co-workers and relatives.

High school football players have been practicing for a month, enduring two-a-day workouts. While they have been preparing physically for the season that lies ahead, they have been learning many other lessons and skills that will serve them well later in their lives. They are learning the importance of setting goals and working to attain them, and the sacrifices they will be asked to make along the way. They are learning about accountability. They are being taught to have pride in themselves, their schools and their communities and to respect others.

And, while the greatest part of the attention seems to be directed toward football players, we remind fans that other fall sports, including golf, soccer, volleyball and cross country are under way as well, and that still more students are involved in cheerleading and marching band. Participants in those sports and activities are deserving of your support as well.

We also hope fans keep their enthusiasm in check and remember that the athletes they are watching are 16-, 17- and 18-year-olds, and not highly paid professionals.

That said, football and the fall sports are back. To the athletes, we say good luck and hope that everyone has a safe and successful season. To the fans, we say cheer for your favorite teams, but remember that encouraging sportsmanship and fostering an atmosphere of respect are among your responsibilities.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the stadiums or the fields this year.